CEREC crowns: restoration in a single visit
When a tooth needs a little boost to regain its strength and health, a tooth crown can be a great solution.
A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers your natural tooth to restore its shape, function, and appearance. In the past, this treatment required several appointments, which could be difficult to schedule.
Today, technology makes it possible to design and fit a perfectly fitting crown in a single visit.
A CEREC crown is a permanent, high-quality restoration that your dentist can design, fabricate, and install in a single appointment. It's a practical option that allows you to quickly regain a healthy and functional smile.
How does the CEREC process work in a single visit?
CEREC, acronym for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramicsuses advanced digital technology to create your restoration or crown directly in the dental office.
This design system and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) greatly simplifies the process, which takes place in four main steps.
- Digital scan
We begin by capturing a 3D image of your tooth using an intraoral scanner. This modern method replaces traditional, often uncomfortable, impressions. The rapid scan produces an accurate digital model of your teeth.
- Custom crown design or restoration
Using a 3D model of your tooth, the restoration or crown is designed virtually on a computer. The dentist adjusts the shape and size to ensure a perfect fit with your bite, while choosing a ceramic shade that harmonizes with your other teeth for an optimal, natural result. - Made on site
Once the design is complete, the data is sent to a CEREC milling unit located in the office. This machine tool mills your restoration or crown from a block of tooth-colored ceramic. The milling process typically takes less than 20 minutes. - Installation and polishing
The crown or restoration is then polished, adjusted, and securely fixed to the prepared tooth. The dentist checks the comfort and bite before finalizing the placement. You leave the same day with your permanent crown or restoration.
CEREC for crowns and restorations inlays et onlays
Although this blog focuses on crowns, CEREC technology can also create restorations. inlays et onlays using the same effective process. These are alternatives that preserve the natural tooth when it needs more than a regular filling, but does not require a full crown.
A restoration inlays is used when your tooth needs more than a regular filling, but the damage is contained within the cusps (the raised points) of your tooth.
A restoration onlay is used when you need more coverage than a simple inlay can provide, but without needing a full crown. Restoration onlay covers one or more cusps to provide additional strength and protection.
These two options better preserve the natural structure of your tooth while providing a strong, custom-made restoration. The one-visit process works the same way for all three options: we scan your tooth, design the restoration, fabricate it in our office, and place it during your single visit.
The main benefits for your smile and your schedule
CEREC crowns and restorations offer several advantages, both practical and aesthetic. They are particularly appreciated by families for their quick placement and comfort.
Save time with just one visit
The main advantage is the time saved. In a single session, you get your custom-made restoration or permanent crown, without having to come back for a second appointment — ideal when you have a busy schedule.
Avoid the temporary crown
With the traditional method, a temporary crown or restoration is worn while the final version is fabricated in a laboratory. With CEREC, this step is eliminated: you leave the same day with your final restoration.
A most natural look and feel
CEREC restorations and crowns are made from a durable, tooth-colored ceramic designed to blend seamlessly with your smile. The result is natural, both visually and to the touch.
Solid and lasting restorations
The high-quality ceramic used is renowned for its strength and durability. With good oral hygiene, your restoration or crown can easily withstand the forces of daily chewing. You can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Things to consider before opting for a CEREC restoration or crown
While one-visit restorations and crowns are suitable for many people, it's helpful to know a few things before making your choice. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision about the health of your smile.
Accessibility and technology
Not all dental practices are yet equipped with the CEREC system, which requires specialized equipment and specific training. This technology represents a modern and precise approach to dental care, combining efficiency and quality.
The cost of a CEREC restoration or crown
The price of a CEREC restoration or crown may vary slightly compared to a lab-made crown. The cost depends on several factors, including the materials used and your specific dental needs. You can check with your insurance provider to see if they cover this type of treatment.
Other types of dental crowns
CEREC crowns are an excellent option for many, but it's always important to know all the options available to you. Traditional lab-made crowns, for example, require two appointments and can be made with different materials in order to better suit certain needs.
- Porcelain or ceramic: corresponding to the colors of natural teeth, they are often used for front teeth.
- Porcelain fused to metal: combines the strength of metal with the natural look of porcelain.
- Zirconia: very strong and natural-looking material, suitable for both front teeth and molars.
- Metal (gold or alloy): durable and robust, often used for back teeth.
Your dentist will be able to guide you towards the solution best suited to your situation.
Taking care of your new CEREC restoration or crown
Once your restoration or crown is in place, it's essential to take care of it. Luckily, its maintenance is similar to that of your natural teeth! Good daily oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist help preserve the health and longevity of your restoration. By taking good care of your restoration or crown, it could last for more than 10 years.
Your daily routine
Rigorous daily hygiene is key to preserving your restoration or crown and your oral health. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Pay particular attention to the crown area to keep your gums healthy.
Your follow-up appointments
Regular dental checkups allow us to monitor the condition of your crown and your overall oral health. These visits are an integral part of a preventative approach that helps maintain a bright smile.
Are you a good candidate?
CEREC restorations and crowns offer a fast, precise, and aesthetically pleasing solution for restoring damaged teeth. They are suitable for many situations, but only your dentist can confirm if they are appropriate for your specific case.
If you would like to learn more about this technology or determine if a CEREC restoration or crown is right for you, Contact the REMA Dentists team.
We will be happy to answer your questions and guide you towards a healthy smile.
